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Main Characteristics of Monotremes

  • There are only five species of monotremes: the platypus and four species of echidnas (one short-beaked echidna and three long-beaked echidnas).
  • Monotremes are the only mammals that don't give birth to live young. They lay eggs.
  • Monotremes means „single opening“ in Greek and refers to their unique anatomy. They have a single exit for both reproductive and excretory systems. It is called the cloaca. This is different from all other mammals that have separate openings.
  • Monotremes are carnivores.
  • Monotremes possess an electro-sense, allowing them to detect the electrical signals emitted by other living creatures using their snout, bill or beak.
  • Monotremes have a noticeably low body temperature. It is 86-89 degrees Fahrenheit (30-32 degrees Celsius).
  • Monotremes live in Australia, Tasmania and New Guinea.

Monotreme Family Tree

Monotreme Family Tree

Species List


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